The 2016–17 Kansas Jayhawks women's basketball team had all the elements of classic college basketball—but was drafted to the sidelines by mainstream media darlings. Coached by Brandon Schneider, this talented group took to the court at Allen Fieldhouse in Lawrence, Kansas, striving for Big 12 prominence and beyond. Yet, constant media spotlight on "higher-profile" teams overshadowed the energy and hard work these women poured into each game. Let's break this season down with ten fantastic truths about these Jayhawks and why they demanded more recognition.
Hustle and Determination: This Kansas team was nothing if not gritty. Despite finishing with a 2-16 record in the Big 12 and an overall 8-22, it’s the effort and determination on display game after game that made them champions in their own right. Sure, the win-loss stats weren’t heavenly, but effort isn't measurable on the scoreboard.
The Underrated Stars: Junior guard Jessica Washington – a name that should’ve been on every lips – transferred from UNC and lit up the scoreboard, earning Big 12 Newcomer of the Year. Averaging over 17 points per game, her talent was undeniable, but did you hear about her in the liberal media? Not quite.
Building Character, Not Just Athletes: This Kansas team exemplified character development both on and off the court. Coach Schneider was keen on nurturing athletes that understood the game extends beyond the lines of the hardwood, all while the media focused on schools churning out professional players rather than well-rounded individuals.
Power of the Fans: Speak of college loyalty, and you're speaking of Allen Fieldhouse, where the Jayhawk faithful packed the stands to support their team. The energy, the passion—it's the kind of environment that truly represented the heartland sentiment, not just in sports but in life. Yet, you'd have to dig deep to find this mentioned in mainstream narratives focused elsewhere.
Academic Success: The scholastic side gets overlooked when talking sports. The academic excellence of a Jayhawk is nothing short of impressive. Balancing rigorous Big 12 competition with demanding coursework is no easy feat, proving these athletes' dedication to their education.
A Foundation for Future Success: Despite the challenging season, the foundation was laid for future glory. With players learning, growing, and developing under Coach Schneider's vision—the kind of long-term planning that really keeps teams on the path to greatness—Kansas was setting itself up for bigger and better seasons.
Close Encounter Games: It's easy to criticize their win-loss record, but the close games reveal a fierceness and refusal to back down in the face of adversity. Homing in on those precious few points that decided the game should remind us of their unwavering spirit.
Community Connection: These athletes didn't just play basketball; they were integral parts of the Lawrence community, engaging in activities and outreach programs, giving back far more than just slam dunks. Communities recognize these contributions, setting the Kansas team apart in ways that don’t flash on ESPN headlines.
Defying Expectations: Crushing liberal predilections that would have you believe only championship-winning teams deserve attention, the Jayhawks battled from start to finish, refusing to fit into conventional molds enforced by those trying to redefine success as simply winning games.
Pioneers for Women in Sports: This team, with its commitment and resilience, propelled the cause of women’s sports. Opportunities for women in sports should garner more attention, yet the spotlight often falls elsewhere. The Jayhawks serve as constant reminders that there's more to sports than just winning titles.
In the heart of Kansas, 2016–17 may have seemed like an unassuming season for outsiders, but for those who truly appreciate the real spirit of competition, the passion, grit, and dedication of the Jayhawks transcend simple victory. They’ve set a standard—an example—of what it means to play for pride, growth, and the future, with an ever-loyal fan base cheering from behind. Maybe next time the American media narrative should widen its field of vision to encompass teams like these, whose stories are victorious in their own right.